The Way Pt.2

“Then he said to the crowd, ‘If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but are yourself lost or destroyed?’” – Luke 9: 23-25 (NLT)

What do you notice about this verse? What jumped out at you?:

This past Sunday, Pastor Julius shared a statistic that about 5,600 people (around the world) die every year, for their faith in Jesus Christ. I don’t know about you, but when I heard that fact, it shocked me to my core! It’s unbelievable to me that in the year 2024, we (still) live in a world where the freedom to express and share your faith openly is not supported by other countries and governments around the world; and that privilege is not granted to everyone. 
This really puts into perspective how blessed we are to live in a country where we have the freedom to share the gospel openly. As Americans, we can congregate freely and meet with others who share the same beliefs, we can pray, praise, and worship as much as we want to, without the fear of the government coming after us, or being killed for our beliefs. Yet, with this freedom, sadly, most take it for granted. Our days are just too filled with distractions, and taking time to read the Bible, Be Still, Pray, attend Church, etc. is too much of an ask (for some people). And all the while, there are people (around the world) in a jail cell …waiting to be executed, wishing they had those opportunities that we so-often, reject. This isn’t to guilt trip us! But it’s just to put into perspective, that following Jesus is not a convenience and for most, it will come at a cost! It’s not supposed to be easy. It’s ONLY supposed to be WORTH IT!!! Some of the most prominent figures in the Bible, paid the price of faith, with their lives. Thank God, that you live in a country where your faith is not costing you, your life.
 In John 16:33 Jesus states … “in this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (NLT) So hold onto the promises of Jesus.  He is greater than your fears. He is stronger than persecution.  Jesus conquered death! And those who have sacrificed their ‘earthly lives’, for His sake, will be reaping their rewards in heaven. In the words of the Apostle Paul, “for to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” – Philippians 1:21 (NIV) Jesus conquers all! 

Answer & Reflect on the following question (s):

 I challenge each and every person, reading this to share Jesus with someone this week. Whether you want to share your story/ testimony, pray with someone, or invite someone to attend church with you. 
It’s time we become a “bold-people” and stand for the gospel of Jesus Christ. God placed you in a country where you have the freedom to talk about your faith openly. There are so many others who wish they were in your shoes. Take advantage of the fact that you are blessed in this way and do not take these moments for granted.

Speak to the Lord and spend some time in prayer:

Heavenly-Father, as we enjoy the Christmas season, let us not forgot it’s true meaning and significance. We love you Father, and appreciate that you cared for us in such a way, that you sent your son and through Him exemplified what it means to live for You. Above all else, help us to not take for granted the fact that Jesus died on the cross for the sins of the world, so that we can have the opportunity to spend eternity with You. Let us not take for granted that we live in a country where we can share our faith openly with others. Help us to be ‘bold as lions’ and to share Jesus today and every day! In Jesus name we pray …. Amen!